Citrus Cream Cheese Bars (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Blonde Orange Brownie
01 -
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, room temperature (2 sticks)
02 -
1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
03 -
3 large eggs, room temperature
04 -
1 tsp orange zest
05 -
3 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
06 -
1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour, stir, spoon & level
07 -
1 tsp salt
→ Orange Cream Frosting
08 -
8 ounces (226 g) block-style cream cheese, softened
09 -
4 Tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
10 -
2 Tbsp orange zest
11 -
1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice, or more if needed
12 -
2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
02 -
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the orange zest and juice, and mix until incorporated.
03 -
Add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
04 -
Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top and edges should be lightly browned.
05 -
While the brownies are baking, make the frosting. In a large bowl with an electric hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and the powdered sugar. Mix until well incorporated. Add up to 1 tablespoon more orange juice if needed, depending on your desired taste and consistency.
06 -
While the brownies are still warm, pierce the entire sheet with a fork. This allows some of the frosting to seep into the brownies. Spread the orange cream frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate until cool before cutting into squares. Keep leftovers refrigerated.
# Notes:
01 -
You will need approximately 2-3 fresh oranges to get enough juice and zest for this recipe.
02 -
These brownies are best served chilled and will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
03 -
For the most vibrant orange flavor, use fresh oranges rather than bottled juice.